2019 Honda Pilot Hybrid: News, Design, Specs

The eight-seater Honda Pilot refreshed its exterior and interior while also gained the latest tech and safety features for the 2019 model year. Unfortunately, the 2019 Pilot, however, retains the 3.6-liter V-6 engine as the only powertrain for now and there are no the new turbocharged engines from the new Accord as we hoped.

However, there could be more for the 2019 Pilot version as the reports claim. The prototype version was spotted while testing and sources claim it is the hybrid version and could even join as the 2019 Honda Pilot Hybrid later in the model year. The more probable scenario is the hybrid version but for the 2020 model year but in either case, Honda will make the popular Pilot more efficient sooner or later.

2019 Honda Pilot Hybrid: Design

The refreshed Honda Pilot adopts slightly sharper styling with the elements similar to the new HR-V and recently redesigned Accord sedan and Odyssey minivan. The new, sleeker grille version comes with Acura-like LED headlights. The model also gets the attention with defined body lines and nice wheel design. The front bumper also fits nicely with the new grille and headlights.

The Hybrid version won’t look much different from the regular version and it will only get the appropriate badging and possibly unique wheels to define its identity.

Interior:

Inside the cabin, the refreshed Pilot is familiar form. It continues with the same design theme and provides good build quality and comfort. The most upgrades are however on the tech side and model borrows from the 2018 Odyssey Minivan.

The new Pilot includes the latest infotainment system with the Apple Car play and Android Auto. It also offers the CabinControl app which makes your phone the remote for the infotainment system. The Pilot also scores with the 4G LTE Wi-Fi and with the large rear seat entertainment system.

The Honda Sensing Suite is also the upgrade and available in all Pilots. The system provides the auto brake, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, automatic high beams, etc.

2019 Honda Pilot Hybrid: Powertrain

As for the powertrain, Honda hasn’t revealed details yet but there shouldn’t be surprises. The 2019 Honda Pilot Hybrid will use the two-motor hybrid system that operates in the latest Accord sedan, new Insight, etc.

In the Accord the system uses the combination of the 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle four-cylinder engine and the electric motor for the total power of 212 hp. The Insight uses a 1.5-liter Atkinson cycle engine and the Pilot could make the system with the 3.5-liter V-6 engine. We will see what the power and EPA ratings will be. The Accord Hybrid provides 47 mpg combined but the Pilot will down the score because of the additional weight.

2019 Honda Pilot Hybrid: Arrival, Price

The refreshed Pilot enters the market now while the 2019 Honda Pilot Hybrid could arrive later in the year as some reports claim or wait the 2020 model year which seems more probable. The base, conventionally powered Pilot will cost from $32, 445. The hybrid will be a few thousand more expensive than the non-hybrid equivalent.